Cambridge (CIE) O Level Combined Science specification (5129)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) O Level Combined Science exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Cambridge (CIE) O Level Combined Science specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Cambridge (CIE) O Level Combined Science (5129) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Cambridge (CIE) specification PDF.
Specification overview
Cambridge O Level Combined Science aims to give students a broad and balanced introduction to Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, encouraging curiosity and understanding of scientific concepts. The course fosters the development of practical skills, analytical thinking, and problem-solving through the application of scientific knowledge. Students learn how science impacts individuals, society, and the environment, acquiring skills in effective communication, experimentation, and data analysis. The syllabus promotes appreciation of scientific methods and prepares learners for further studies or employment, emphasising transferable skills like accuracy, integrity, innovation, and teamwork.Subject content breakdown
Biology
- Cells – Structure, function, specialisation, diffusion, osmosis, water potential.
- Enzymes – Enzyme action, specificity, temperature and pH effects.
- Plant nutrition and transport – Photosynthesis, leaf structure, root hair uptake, transpiration, translocation.
- Human nutrition – Diet, digestion, enzymes, absorption, assimilation.
- Human gas exchange – Respiratory system, gas exchange, breathing, exercise effects.
- Respiration – Aerobic/anaerobic processes, energy release, oxygen debt.
- Transport in humans – Circulatory system, heart function, blood vessels, blood composition.
- Drugs and their effects – Types of drugs, antibiotics, resistance, alcohol, tobacco.
- Coordination and control – Nervous system, hormones, reflex actions.
- Development of organisms and continuity of life – Mitosis, meiosis, reproduction, HIV/AIDS.
- Biotechnology and genetic modification – Genetic engineering, insulin production, GM crops.
- Relationships of organisms and environment – Energy flow, carbon cycle, human impact on ecosystems.
Chemistry
- States of matter – Properties, particle theory, gas behaviour.
- Atoms, elements and compounds – Atomic structure, bonding, periodic table trends.
- Stoichiometry – Formulae, equations, relative mass, concentration calculations.
- Chemical energetics – Exothermic/endothermic reactions, energy changes.
- Chemical reactions – Rates of reaction, redox, catalysts.
- Acids, bases and salts – Properties, reactions, neutralisation, salt preparation.
- The Periodic Table – Arrangement, Group I & VII properties, ion identification.
- Metals – Properties, uses, reactivity series, corrosion.
- Chemistry of the environment – Water treatment, air pollutants, climate impact, fuel cells.
- Organic chemistry – Hydrocarbons, cracking, polymers, fuels.
Physics
- Motion, forces and energy – Measurement, speed, density, forces, energy resources.
- Thermal physics – Particle model, thermal expansion, heat transfer.
- Waves – Properties, reflection, refraction, EM spectrum.
- Electricity – Charge, current, resistance, circuits, safety.
- Nuclear physics – Atomic model, radioactivity, half-life, uses, safety.
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Multiple Choice
- 1 hour, 40 marks.
- 40 compulsory multiple-choice questions on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Assesses knowledge and problem-solving skills (AO1 & AO2).
Paper 2: Theory
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 80 marks.
- Short-answer and structured questions on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Assesses knowledge and problem-solving skills (AO1 & AO2).
Paper 3: Experimental Skills and Investigations
- 1 hour, 40 marks.
- Questions based on practical skills across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Assesses experimental skills (AO3).
- Includes planning, analysis, evaluation, and data interpretation.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1 Knowledge with understanding – 50%.
- AO2 Handling information and problem-solving – 30%.
AO3 Experimental skills and investigations – 20%.
- All papers are externally assessed.
- No coursework; practical skills tested through written assessment.
- Wide range of experimental contexts expected across subjects.
- Qualification graded A* to E.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) O Level Combined Science isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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